Why Fashion Is About to Get More Expensive — And How You Can Minimize the Impact
If you’ve been keeping up with recent headlines, you’ve likely heard that the prices of clothing in the U.S. are expected to rise — and for good reason. The tariffs imposed during the Trump administration, particularly those on Chinese imports, are having a significant impact on the cost of fashion. While this is frustrating for many, understanding how these changes affect clothing prices — and how to adjust accordingly — can help you make smarter, more sustainable choices moving forward.
Why Fashion Is Getting More Expensive
Under the Trump administration, a series of tariffs were imposed on imported goods, including textiles and apparel, primarily from China. These tariffs were part of a broader trade war, aimed at addressing trade imbalances and intellectual property concerns. However, the effect on consumers is clear: higher prices on imported clothing and accessories.
These tariffs were designed to make goods produced in China more expensive, and this has directly impacted the fashion industry. As a result, manufacturers and retailers are often forced to raise prices to cover the additional costs. This means that items we used to buy at more affordable prices, especially from fast fashion retailers, may now come with steeper price tags.
While tariffs may have eased since the Trump administration, their effects are still being felt, and it’s likely that the cost of fashion will continue to rise as a result. But don’t worry — there are sustainable strategies you can adopt to help manage these increasing costs while still dressing with intention.
Sustainable Solutions: How to Minimize the Impact of Rising Fashion Costs
Rising clothing prices don’t mean you have to compromise on your values or style. By embracing sustainable shopping habits, you can minimize the impact of higher prices and still feel good about your wardrobe. Here’s how:
1. Wear What You Already Own (and Love)
The simplest and most sustainable choice is often the one right in front of us: our existing wardrobe. It’s easy to get caught up in the cycle of wanting new clothes, especially when everything seems more expensive, but wearing what you already have is a win-win.
Outfit Repetition Is Chic: Don’t be afraid to wear the same items more than once. Outfits can be styled in so many different ways with just a few tweaks — changing accessories, layering pieces, or pairing them with something new.
Rediscover Hidden Gems: Take a deep dive into your closet and find pieces you haven’t worn in a while. A quick refresh with accessories or styling can make old clothes feel like new again.
2. Shop Secondhand, Vintage, and Resale
Secondhand shopping is one of the most sustainable ways to shop without paying a premium. Instead of contributing to the demand for newly made clothing, buying secondhand reduces waste and lowers your carbon footprint.
Online Platforms: Sites like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Depop offer a wide range of gently used clothes — often from high-quality, sustainable brands. You’ll pay a fraction of the retail price while still getting high-quality, unique items.
Thrift Stores: If you enjoy the hunt, visit your local thrift or consignment stores. You never know what treasures you might find, from vintage designer pieces to high-end brands that would otherwise cost a lot more.
3. Rent Clothes for Special Occasions
Buying clothes for special occasions can quickly become expensive, especially if you’re only planning to wear an item once. That’s where clothing rental services come in. Renting allows you to access high-quality, trendy items for a fraction of the cost.
Rent for Events: Renting a dress or suit for a wedding, gala, or party lets you wear something fabulous without the long-term cost. Services like Rent the Runway and HURR Collective make it easy to rent items you’ll wear for just a few days.
Rent Everyday Items: Some rental services also offer everyday items like jeans, jackets, and shoes. Renting instead of buying can help you refresh your wardrobe while keeping costs down.
4. Invest in High-Quality, Timeless Pieces
When you do buy new, invest in timeless pieces that will last for years. Although quality clothing may come with a higher price tag, these items typically have a longer lifespan and are often made with more sustainable materials.
Choose Durability Over Trendiness: Opt for pieces that won’t go out of style after one season, such as a classic blazer, a well-made pair of jeans, or a durable coat. These are items you can wear again and again, year after year.
Sustainable Brands: Look for brands committed to ethical production and quality materials. While the upfront cost may be higher, the longevity of these pieces makes them a more economical choice in the long run.
5. Care for Your Clothes
Taking proper care of the clothing you already own is one of the best ways to reduce the need for replacements and make your wardrobe last longer.
Wash Less and Wash Smart: Washing clothes too frequently causes them to break down faster. Try wearing clothes multiple times before washing, and always use a gentle cycle and cold water to preserve the fabric.
Repair, Don’t Replace: Instead of tossing out items that are torn or worn, consider repairing them. Whether it’s sewing a button, patching a hole, or having a piece professionally tailored, simple repairs can make your clothes last much longer.
6. Hiring a Stylist Might Be Just the Right Move
With rising clothing costs, making strategic choices about what to buy and how to wear it has never been more important. This might be the perfect time to invest in a stylist who can help you make the best choices for your personal style and budget.
A stylist can help you:
Create a Versatile, Long-Lasting Wardrobe: Together, you’ll build a collection of pieces that work harmoniously together and that you can wear season after season. A well-curated wardrobe eliminates unnecessary purchases and ensures you get the most out of what you already own.
Maximize Your Existing Pieces: A stylist can show you how to get creative with the clothes you already have, helping you to create new looks with items you’ve forgotten about or haven’t worn in a while.
Make Smarter Purchases: With expert guidance, you’ll know exactly where to invest in quality items that will last, rather than being swayed by fleeting trends or fast fashion.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Smart, Sustainable Fashion Choices
Rising clothing costs don’t have to mean sacrificing style or sustainability. By wearing what you already own, shopping secondhand, renting clothes, and investing in high-quality pieces that last, you can minimize the impact of higher prices while staying true to your sustainable fashion values.
Remember: sustainable fashion isn’t about constantly buying new — it’s about making thoughtful, intentional choices. So, the next time you’re tempted to buy that new piece, pause and ask yourself: Do I really need this, or can I style what I already have?
If you’d like personalized guidance on how to build a sustainable, cost-effective wardrobe, now may be the perfect time to hire a stylist. Let’s talk about how we can make sustainability work for your style and budget.
With Love,
Charline Z - Personal Stylist -Los Angeles
